Sen. Wyden investigates Trump-linked firm’s Venezuela investments

BEND, ORE. (KTVZ) -- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member, launched an inquiry today into Yorkville International Capital. The blank-check company, which has close ties to Donald Trump’s family and businesses, raised $200 million for investments in Venezuela and Latin America.

Yorkville International Capital is controlled by a firm that has a multi-billion-dollar financial relationship with the Trump family. The blank-check company also shares a chief executive officer with Trump Media & Technology Group. Sen. Wyden questioned Yorkville’s president about its Trump ties and concerns that investments in Venezuela could violate international sanctions and human rights.

Sen. Wyden sent an inquiry letter to Mark Angelo, president of Yorkville Advisors Global, expressing his concerns. In his letter, Sen. Wyden stated, “Both Yorkville Advisors and persons involved with Yorkville International Capital have deep business ties to Donald Trump and the Trump family. Now it appears that following the Trump administration’s decision to loosen sanctions on Venezuela, Yorkville Advisors is cashing in.”

Sen. Wyden highlighted concerns about the structure of the company. “Due to the opacity of shell companies like Yorkville International Capital, I have strong concerns about potential conflicts of interest with the Trump administration and what could amount to a blank check to funnel hundreds of millions of dollars to strengthen Donald Trump’s businesses,” Wyden wrote.

He emphasized the need for transparency. “Given the significant overlap between Yorkville International Capital, Yorkville Advisors, and Donald Trump’s personal business interests, transparency is required to ensure that adequate due diligence policies are in place, there is appropriate separation between these entities, and that Yorkville Advisors isn’t being afforded special privilege as a result of its relationships.”